BSW3702
Portfolio
Semester 2 2025
Due 1 October 2025
,BSW3702
PORTFOLIO
Semester 2 2025
Due 1 October 2025
QUESTION 1.
1: FIELD THEORY AND ITS APPLICABILITY IN GROUP WORK
Understanding Field Theory
Field theory was introduced by Kurt Lewin, a social psychologist often regarded as the
father of modern group dynamics. The theory is based on the idea that behaviour is not
the result of isolated personal traits alone but is shaped by the interaction between an
individual and their environment, which Lewin referred to as the "field" (Burnes &
Cooke, 2013). In this sense, the field represents a dynamic totality where each part of
the system influences and is influenced by the other parts. The formula Lewin used to
explain this is B = f(P,E), meaning that behaviour (B) is a function of the person (P) in
interaction with the environment (E) (Lewin, 1951).
Relevance to Group Work
In the context of group work, field theory helps social workers understand that a group is
not just a collection of individuals but a network of interdependent relationships. The
group environment—the goals, norms, values, and relationships—affects how members
behave and interact. At the same time, the behaviour of each member contributes to
shaping the overall field. For example, if a member feels excluded, their withdrawal can
shift group dynamics, potentially creating tension or reshaping alliances within the
group.
,Practical Applicability in Group Settings
1. Understanding Group Dynamics: Field theory allows practitioners to analyse
tensions, alliances, and conflicts within the group. These are not seen as
personal shortcomings but as natural outcomes of interactions within the field.
2. Guiding Interventions: By mapping out the forces operating in a group, social
workers can identify what promotes cohesion and what causes resistance. This
makes it possible to apply interventions that shift group energy towards growth
and constructive outcomes.
3. Promoting Change: Lewin’s concept of force field analysis—understanding
driving and restraining forces—can be applied to encourage behavioural change
within groups. For example, in a therapeutic group addressing substance abuse,
strengthening supportive peer influences while reducing negative peer pressure
can foster change.
4. Holistic Perspective: The theory ensures that interventions consider both the
individual’s personal needs and the environmental influences of the group. This
prevents a narrow focus on one aspect and encourages an integrated approach
to problem-solving.
Critical Reflection
While field theory offers valuable insights, its limitation lies in its broadness. It requires
skilled facilitators to interpret complex group dynamics without oversimplifying them.
Nevertheless, its holistic and interactional perspective makes it a foundational tool in
social group work, allowing practitioners to appreciate the interplay between individuals
and their environment.
, QUESTION 1.2: WHEN DOES AUTHORITARIAN LEADERSHIP STYLE BECOME
RELEVANT FOR GROUP WORK?
Understanding Authoritarian Leadership
Authoritarian leadership is characterised by a top-down approach where the leader
makes decisions with limited input from members. The leader exercises high levels of
control, sets clear rules, and expects compliance. While this style is often criticised for
restricting participation and creativity, it is not inherently negative; its relevance depends
on context and group needs (Northouse, 2022).
Relevance in Group Work
There are specific situations in which authoritarian leadership becomes not only
relevant but necessary for the functioning and safety of the group:
1. Crisis or Emergency Situations
In moments where quick decisions are needed—such as managing a group
during a health crisis or conflict—the authoritarian style ensures direction and
stability. This prevents confusion and maintains order when time does not allow
for consensus building.
2. With Inexperienced or New Groups
Groups that are newly formed or consist of members unfamiliar with group
processes may require firm guidance. The leader’s authoritative stance provides
structure, helps members understand expectations, and establishes clear
boundaries that promote security.
3. When Dealing with Resistance
In situations where members are resistant to change or disruptive, authoritative
leadership helps re-establish control and redirect the group towards its
objectives. For example, a facilitator leading a group of adolescents displaying
disruptive behaviour may need to assert authority to maintain focus.
4. High-Risk Contexts
Groups addressing sensitive or high-risk issues, such as medical adherence or
Portfolio
Semester 2 2025
Due 1 October 2025
,BSW3702
PORTFOLIO
Semester 2 2025
Due 1 October 2025
QUESTION 1.
1: FIELD THEORY AND ITS APPLICABILITY IN GROUP WORK
Understanding Field Theory
Field theory was introduced by Kurt Lewin, a social psychologist often regarded as the
father of modern group dynamics. The theory is based on the idea that behaviour is not
the result of isolated personal traits alone but is shaped by the interaction between an
individual and their environment, which Lewin referred to as the "field" (Burnes &
Cooke, 2013). In this sense, the field represents a dynamic totality where each part of
the system influences and is influenced by the other parts. The formula Lewin used to
explain this is B = f(P,E), meaning that behaviour (B) is a function of the person (P) in
interaction with the environment (E) (Lewin, 1951).
Relevance to Group Work
In the context of group work, field theory helps social workers understand that a group is
not just a collection of individuals but a network of interdependent relationships. The
group environment—the goals, norms, values, and relationships—affects how members
behave and interact. At the same time, the behaviour of each member contributes to
shaping the overall field. For example, if a member feels excluded, their withdrawal can
shift group dynamics, potentially creating tension or reshaping alliances within the
group.
,Practical Applicability in Group Settings
1. Understanding Group Dynamics: Field theory allows practitioners to analyse
tensions, alliances, and conflicts within the group. These are not seen as
personal shortcomings but as natural outcomes of interactions within the field.
2. Guiding Interventions: By mapping out the forces operating in a group, social
workers can identify what promotes cohesion and what causes resistance. This
makes it possible to apply interventions that shift group energy towards growth
and constructive outcomes.
3. Promoting Change: Lewin’s concept of force field analysis—understanding
driving and restraining forces—can be applied to encourage behavioural change
within groups. For example, in a therapeutic group addressing substance abuse,
strengthening supportive peer influences while reducing negative peer pressure
can foster change.
4. Holistic Perspective: The theory ensures that interventions consider both the
individual’s personal needs and the environmental influences of the group. This
prevents a narrow focus on one aspect and encourages an integrated approach
to problem-solving.
Critical Reflection
While field theory offers valuable insights, its limitation lies in its broadness. It requires
skilled facilitators to interpret complex group dynamics without oversimplifying them.
Nevertheless, its holistic and interactional perspective makes it a foundational tool in
social group work, allowing practitioners to appreciate the interplay between individuals
and their environment.
, QUESTION 1.2: WHEN DOES AUTHORITARIAN LEADERSHIP STYLE BECOME
RELEVANT FOR GROUP WORK?
Understanding Authoritarian Leadership
Authoritarian leadership is characterised by a top-down approach where the leader
makes decisions with limited input from members. The leader exercises high levels of
control, sets clear rules, and expects compliance. While this style is often criticised for
restricting participation and creativity, it is not inherently negative; its relevance depends
on context and group needs (Northouse, 2022).
Relevance in Group Work
There are specific situations in which authoritarian leadership becomes not only
relevant but necessary for the functioning and safety of the group:
1. Crisis or Emergency Situations
In moments where quick decisions are needed—such as managing a group
during a health crisis or conflict—the authoritarian style ensures direction and
stability. This prevents confusion and maintains order when time does not allow
for consensus building.
2. With Inexperienced or New Groups
Groups that are newly formed or consist of members unfamiliar with group
processes may require firm guidance. The leader’s authoritative stance provides
structure, helps members understand expectations, and establishes clear
boundaries that promote security.
3. When Dealing with Resistance
In situations where members are resistant to change or disruptive, authoritative
leadership helps re-establish control and redirect the group towards its
objectives. For example, a facilitator leading a group of adolescents displaying
disruptive behaviour may need to assert authority to maintain focus.
4. High-Risk Contexts
Groups addressing sensitive or high-risk issues, such as medical adherence or
